China urges US military jet to leave disputed islands

TOKYO, May 22 (KUNA) -- Chinese troops urged a US military jet approaching the disputed Nansha (Spratly) Islands to change course by radio, state-run Xinhua News Agency reported Friday.
"Chinese troops acted upon the rules and asked the US aircraft to leave," Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei confirmed at a press briefing in Beijing, according to the report.
Hong's comments came after a US P-8A anti-submarine and maritime surveillance aircraft flew over waters off Nansha (Spratly) Islands on Wednesday.
"It must be pointed out that the reconnaissance conducted by the US military aircraft poses a potential threat to the security of China's maritime features," Hong said.
"We call on the United States to act in strict accordance with international law, and refrain from taking any risky or provocative action," the spokesman said, adding that China will keep a close watch on the situation and take proper measures to protect the security of its territory.
The oil-rich islands chains are claimed by China, the Philippines, Taiwan, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam.
Earlier this week, US Deputy Secretary of State Antony Blinken said China's land reclamation in the South China Sea is undermining freedom and stability, and could even lead to conflict. (end) mk.bs